The opioid crisis continues to affect families and communities across the country, with opioids having been involved in the majority of drug overdose deaths in Minnesota. No matter the reason for usage, the risk of overdose is real and often preventable. Becoming aware of opioid overdose, recognizing the warning signs, and knowing how to respond can help save lives.
There are two important tools that you should keep in mind when faced with an opioid emergency: Narcan (naloxone) and CPR. When used quickly and correctly, they can keep someone alive until EMTs arrive.
Why Opioid Overdose Awareness Matters
Opioids slow the central nervous system. During an overdose, breathing can slow dramatically or completely stop, preventing oxygen from reaching the brain. This can lead to brain injury or death within minutes.
Though many overdoses happen around others, some may not know what to do during an opioid overdose. Becoming aware of the signs and steps to take in the event of an overdose is extremely important, as taking early action can be the difference between life and death.
Signs of an Opioid Overdose
Recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose early is critical. Some common signs include:
- Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Unresponsiveness (won’t respond to shouting or shaking)
- Blue or gray lips and fingernails
- Pale, clammy skin
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Pinpoint pupils
- Slow or absent pulse
If you see these signs, treat the situation as a medical emergency. Knowing overdose first aid can help stabilize the person until emergency services arrive.
1. Call 911 Immediately
Always call emergency services first. If possible, tell a bystander to call so you can begin emergency aid right away. Ensure the dispatcher knows the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
2. Try to Wake the Person
Shout their name, tap their shoulders, or perform a sternum rub (press your knuckles firmly into the center of the chest). If there’s no response, quickly continue to the next step.
3. Administer Narcan (Naloxone)
Narcan reverses opioid overdoses by blocking opioid uptake in the brain, and it’s often sent home with patients who are prescribed opioids. It is safe, easy to use, and causes no harm if there aren’t any opioids in the individual’s system.
- Give one dose (nasal spray or injection, depending on the product)
- Wait 2–3 minutes
- If there’s no response, give another dose
- Continue until the person starts breathing or help arrives
Narcan works for 30–90 minutes, but the overdose can return after it wears off, which is why seeking professional medical help is so important.
4. Provide Rescue Breathing or CPR
A lack of oxygen is the biggest danger during an opioid overdose. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) helps get oxygenated blood to vital organs, buying precious time until professional help arrives.
If the person has a pulse but isn’t breathing, provide rescue breathing (one breath every 5–6 seconds). If the person has no pulse, then begin CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths, if trained.
5. Stay Until Help Arrives
Remain near the person. If they begin breathing, place them in the recovery position to prevent choking.
How CPR and Narcan Work Together
Narcan addresses the cause of the overdose, while CPR addresses its most dangerous effect, a lack of oxygen. When used together, they dramatically increase survival chances. Even if Narcan revives someone, CPR or rescue breathing may still be needed if breathing is slow or irregular.
Opioid Safety: Prevention Saves Lives
Overdose response is critical, but opioid safety starts long before an emergency.
- Use medications only as prescribed
- Never mix opioids with alcohol or sedatives
- Store opioids securely and dispose of unused pills properly
- Carry Narcan if you or someone you know is at risk
- Learn CPR and basic overdose response
Resources
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid abuse or addiction, help is available. Visit some of the links below to determine what care best fits your needs.
St. Cloud VA Medical Center – Mental health care
Sobriety First Treatment Center
Everyone Can Make a Difference
You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to save a life. By learning the signs of an overdose, carrying Narcan, and knowing what to do during an opioid overdose, you become part of the solution.
If you are interested in CPR certification, Specialized Health and Safety offers CPR training classes that provide the knowledge needed to react during emergency situations. One day, it could help you save a complete stranger or someone you love.
